By Joy Yesufu
In a heartbreaking incident, Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu, a Catholic priest in Kaduna State, was killed by bandits shortly after being kidnapped in the Kaura Local Government Area on Tuesday night.
Father Okechukwu served as the pastor of Saint Mary’s Catholic Church Tachira before his tragic death.
Reverend Father Jacob Shanet, Chancellor of the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan, confirmed the devastating news in a statement released on Wednesday.
He said that Father Okechukwu was abducted from his home at approximately 9 PM on March 4, 2025, only to be slain in the early hours of March 5, which coincided with Ash Wednesday,a significant day in the Christian calendar.
The motive behind the brutal murder remains unclear.
Fr. Shanet described the deceased priest as a selfless servant of God, dedicated to spreading messages of peace, love, and hope. The loss has left a profound void in the diocesan community, prompting calls for reflection and unity in the face of tragedy.
In response to the incident, community leaders have urged local youths and residents to remain calm and engaged in prayer, while also warning against any acts of violence or lawlessness.
The Kaduna State police have confirmed the occurrence and stated that operatives have been dispatched to the area and surrounding communities to trace and apprehend those responsible for this heinous crime.
Police spokesman Mansir Hassan emphasized the commitment to justice for Father Okechukwu.
Born on December 11, 1980, Father Okechukwu was ordained as a priest of the Catholic Church on February 11, 2021.
This tragic event marks the second time he had fallen victim to abduction, as he previously survived a kidnapping in December 2022 from St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Fadan Kono, where he was held for three days before he was released.
